Governor Gretchen Whitmer has declared August Breastfeeding Month, when mothers are encouraged to breastfeed their babies due to the health benefits it provides. Berrien County Health Department lactation specialist Mistel de Varona tells us breastfeeding is best for both mom and baby.
“For mom, it supports mental health hormones at the beginning and helps with weight loss,” de Varona said. “Long-term benefits are lower risk of certain cancers, heart disease, diabetes. For baby, breast milk right at the beginning of life helps strengthen the immune system and brain development. It even lowers the rate of SIDS, and of course breast milk, because it’s made specially for humans, it’s easier to digest.”
She says 83% of new moms start out breastfeeding, but that number goes down quickly in the following months as challenges to breastfeeding emerge. She notes federal law protects a mother’s right to breastfeed, requiring employers allow the time and space for them to pump. The Berrien County Health Department offers breastfeeding support, including classes and support groups. The department is also recognizing Breastfeeding Month, having held Breastfeeding in the Park at Milton Park in St. Joseph this past weekend.
